Florida is grappling with one of the most powerful hurricanes in a century. Hurricane Milton made landfall at Siesta Key as a Category 3 storm but was downgraded to Category 1 by approximately 8:00 AM (Cyprus time). Despite this, the hurricane has already caused extensive damage and claimed lives.

According to the US National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Milton has completed its passage through Florida and is now moving off the state's eastern coast. However, it continues to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to eastern and central Florida.

More than 3 million homes and businesses in Florida are without power, and over 70,000 people have sought refuge in shelters. Authorities have issued urgent warnings for residents to remain indoors.

The most severe destruction has occurred in St. Lucie County, where there are reports of fatalities. The county sheriff's office, located on Florida's east coast, confirmed to the BBC that there have been multiple deaths in the community.

"We’ve had several tornadoes touch down in this community, and we have lost lives," the sheriff stated without providing further details. Florida authorities are waiting for daylight to assess the full extent of the damage.

For those who haven't evacuated, it is now too late to do so. The devastation is staggering, and updates are ongoing.